The Past, Present and Future of Music

Blog Post – Paul Williams Interview – Dress up?

So, you’re recording your latest hit in the studio, and it’s just not happening…

You’ve got the best mic available, a great preamp, the lighting is great, lyric sheet in place, warm tea nearby, yet the vibe isn’t right…

In today’s blog post, we revisit an interview that Todd Miller did with legendary songwriter Paul Williams…composer of such tracks as “Rainy Days and Mondays”, “We’ve Only Just Begun”, “Rainbow Connection”, “You And Me Against The World”, Theme from “The Love Boat”, “Someday Man” by The Monkees, “Almost Sorry” with the Scissor Sisters, and even worked with Daft Punk on “Touch” and “Beyond”…wow. Paul shares not only his songwriting process including numerous co-writes but also some of his most memorable songs and studio experiences.

One sticks out for Paul – working with Kermit The Frog and his puppeteer Jim Henson. Jim was singing as Kermit but the vibe wasn’t right. Paul was the producer and it was obvious that “Kermit” wasn’t actually being recorded on tape, but the performance was not there. Paul decided to ask Jim to put Kermit on his hand and perform AS Kermit to see what would happen. He put Jim behind a screen for privacy and to allow him to inhabit the role of Kermit. Voila…suddenly the song “Rainbow Connection” came alive! How does this apply to you? Read on…

Have you ever felt that your songs sometimes have more energy on stage than in the studio? Do you dress differently on the stage as opposed to the studio? Maybe you don’t, but I’ve found that some bands I’ve worked with actually make the studio experience as close to the stage as possible. Bring some stage props or a banner, drape your microphone in scarves, set up some funky lighting, wear some clothes that you’d wear on stage to feel great or impress your fans. MAKE it a performance. If you are a Genesis tribute band, wear a fox head if you need to get the correct vibe. Have you ever seen old pictures of orchestras? Back in the day, musicians sometimes dressed up in formal attire to record, ensuring that they were focused on the task at hand, as it made them feel more professional.

Here’s the podcast ==>

We’re not saying you can’t record in your jammies if you want to, but think about it…it just might help to mix it up a bit. Just give us advance warning if you are wearing your Minions PJs into a session 🙂

Cashbox Canada – A Short History of Toronto Recording Studios…

Was surfing around today looking for information on some Toronto recording studios that have unfortunately closed, and was pleased to find this older post in Cashbox Canada Magazine in which Number 9 gets a nod! Fascinating trip down memory lane as some of these studios no longer exist, and we’re still choogling (thanks to John Fogerty for that turn of phrase!) along in 2016, with big plans for the future.

Called Canada’s “Abbey Road” by some, we’ve been here for many decades, delivering high quality recordings at prices that will astound. And we’re huge Beatles fans, come see us to create your own Sgt. Pepper!

Give us a call or email to schedule an appointment or tour to discuss your recording needs.

In the meantime, check out this blast from the past, with some fond memories of former Toronto recording studios, and of course Number 9, still going strong. Please feel free to also drop us a comment about one of our existing blog posts, or suggestion for a future blog post.

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Testimonials

I have had the pleasure of being a part of numerous Recording Sessions at Number 9 Audio and based on my experience, George Rondina and his Staff run one of the most well equipped, professional Studios in the City of Toronto. The easily accessible Downtown location on Gerrard Street is fantastic with no parking issues, and once you are inside, you are welcomed with First Class treatment, in a clean, efficient, acoustically perfect facility.
Andy Frost
On Air Host
Q107/AM 640 Toronto Radio
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Andy Frost

I really enjoyed recording at Number 9. I knew I was in the hands of experienced professionals. I went back to Number 9 for CD manufacturing and website development – because I trust them.Everyone from the staff to the owner, George, treated me with respect and made me feel like I am every bit as important as their “star” clients. In a word, they provide quality service.In a world where home studios are a dime a dozen Number 9 is the “real thing”

Christine Tier

I am writing to commend Neale for his exemplary customer service. I had a problem with my Mac and he took a lot of time and trouble to help me, although your company did not make much money from the transaction (as well, I live in Cambridge). He was completely knowledgeable and professional, and I am happy I Googled “Toronto Mac dealers” and stumbled on your company.
Thank you.

Lee Anne Johnston

I think we are very lucky, my daughter and I, to have found Number 9. (Thanks Google!). George was right; the Bechstein piano is indeed absolutely magnificient. A few days after our phone conversation, Anika my daughter had recorded her piano pieces and we walked away with a beautiful sounding CD. We cannot say enough good things about Bernie, who masterly engineered the whole project in record time.
We look forward to visiting Number 9 again soon. In the meantime, all the best to your wonder…